How to Keep Up with Changing Dining Habits
American diners do their homework before going out to eat at a restaurant. In fact, in a recent survey conducted by US Foods, 83% of people review the menu ahead of time, and half of them (50%) already know what they’re going to order before even stepping foot inside!
With so much thought put into dining choices, it’s clear that today’s customers want more than just good food—they want meals that fit their needs, whether that’s a specific diet, health-conscious options, or quick service. And here’s the challenge: if restaurants and foodservice businesses don’t keep up, they risk falling behind.
In this blog, we’ll dive into how you can adapt your kitchen and service to meet these evolving needs. From accommodating food allergies to embracing convenience-focused trends, we’ve got practical tips to help you stay ahead in the game.
Personalized Experiences
Customization is top priority. During the COVID-19 pandemic, an Innova Market Survey showed that 64% of global consumers want more personalized nutrition and products that fit their lifestyles. This is why customizable menus – like build-your-own bowls, pizzas, or salads are so popular.
Flexibility is also important. Diners expect options to swap ingredients, adjust portion sizes, or cater to specific dietary needs or cultural preferences. By showing customers that their unique choices matter, you’re not just serving food, you’re building loyalty.
Health-Conscious Dining
Eating out is no longer just about indulgence; it’s about balance. Strategic Marketing Research reports that 67% of Americans believe eating plant-based foods is healthier than eating animal-based foods, and 42% plan to include more plant-based meals in their diets.
This growing focus on health means diners are looking for clean-label menus, simple ingredient lists, and calorie counts. Healthier cooking methods, like grilling or steaming, can also make your offerings more appealing to wellness-focused customers.
Convenience-Focused Trends
Convenience is king. According to US Foods, even well after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, 57% of Americans prefer ordering takeout or delivery over dining in. Grab-and-go options, seamless app-based ordering, and services like curbside pickup are great ways to meet this demand. By making it easy for customers to get the food they want, when they want it, you’ll keep them coming back for more.
Adapting Your Kitchen and Menu
Once you understand what diners want, the next step is adapting your kitchen and menu to deliver on those expectations.
- Ensure your menu clearly marks items that are gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, or suitable for specific diets like vegan or keto. This transparency builds trust and makes ordering easier for guests.
- Teach your team how to handle food safely, especially when it comes to preventing cross-contamination. This is crucial for allergy safety and shows you care about your customers’ well-being.
- Offer base items like cauliflower crusts, zucchini noodles, or protein alternatives. These let diners customize their meals to fit their preferences or restrictions.
Upgrading Kitchen Equipment and Layout
Upgrading your kitchen equipment and layout is essential to handle the growing demand for diverse meal options efficiently. Investing in flexible kitchen setups allows you to easily switch between preparing plant-based, allergen-free, or specialty dishes. High-quality tools like slicers, blenders, and other prep equipment help maintain speed and consistency while ensuring dishes meet customer expectations. Additionally, dedicating space for allergen-free or specialty ingredients helps keep everything organized and safe from cross-contamination, streamlining your operations while maintaining food safety.
Leveraging Technology
Leveraging technology allows you to work smarter and stay ahead of new trends. Tools that monitor ingredient usage help you spot trends and ensure you’re always stocked with what customers want. Using apps or systems to collect real-time customer feedback and preferences enables you to fine-tune your menu and service, ensuring you meet their evolving needs. For more insights, read our previous blog on Technology in the Foodservice Industry to learn how tech can transform your operations.
Enhancing Customer Service
Modern diners expect service that’s knowledgeable, seamless, and transparent. To meet these expectations:
- Train your staff to confidently discuss dietary options and allergens. Empower them to ask thoughtful questions and make personalized recommendations, ensuring diners feel understood and cared for.
- Use technology like digital ordering systems for detailed customization. QR codes that link to nutritional information can help customers make informed choices without added pressure.
- Be transparent about ingredients and sourcing. Highlight the origins of your food, whether it’s locally sourced or organic, and clearly communicate potential allergens or cross-contamination risks to build trust.
Staying Ahead of Trends
To stay competitive, it’s important to keep up with changing dining trends. Keep an eye on industry reports and listen to customer feedback to spot new diets and preferences. You can try out new menu items or offer limited-time specials to see what people like without making a big commitment.
Working with experts like nutritionists or allergists can help you make sure your menu meets different dietary needs. Getting involved with local communities can also give you an idea of what people in your area prefer.
Attending foodservice trade shows and events is another great way to stay updated. These events show new products, tools, and ideas that can help your business keep up with what customers want. Being proactive helps you keep your menu fresh and exciting.
As dining habits change, restaurants and foodservice businesses need to adapt. By offering personalized, healthy, and convenient options, you can meet the needs of today’s diners. Improving your kitchen, service, and marketing while staying ahead of trends will help you create an experience that customers love. With these strategies, you’ll stay competitive and thrive in an ever-changing market.
December 18, 2024
By Maitri Gandhi – Product Marketing Specialist, Hoshizaki America
